“An Open Secret” was released in 2014 and follows the real life experiences of several child actors who fell into the control of a variety of sexual predators in Hollywood who prey on innocent children.
An Open Secret explores the accusations of sexual abuse experienced by five child actors in Hollywood who speak out about their abuse. Often quoted as “the film Hollywood doesn’t want you to see”, it explores how some of the elite in Hollywood prey on children in the industry using drugs, alcohol, and grooming. Much of the accused Hollywood aristocracy still work for well-known companies such as Nickelodeon.
The details of the highly corrupt industry and they way in which it exploits children (and adults) are clear to see. It is stated that no child who has made accusations of sexual abuse has gone on to have a successful career and that in all cases the industry rejects them following them reporting abusers.
“AN OPEN SECRET” looks at the lives of children betrayed and abandoned by a system that essentially funnels them towards sexual predators without any oversight or regard for their safety. It documents not only these young peoples’ experiences, but also how some have emerged stronger for their speaking out. It beg the questions of why children working in entertainment aren’t afforded the same protections they are afforded at school, and argues for more effective treatment and stronger penalties for child sex offenders.
The film not only highlights the personal experiences of the abused, but drives the message that these incidents are not unique but commonplace in a secretive paedophile ring that has lasted for decades. While some of the accused served jail time, many are still working with children and doing so legally. This documentary inspires hope of not only exposing the sexual abuse, but also strengthening the legal system in an attempt to better protect children in Hollywood.